Life. Changing. Almond. Croissant.
The pictures don’t even come close to doing this beauty justice. Flaky, airy, and tender, with a vanilla bean-speckled almond filling that’s gooey and generous (and not overly sweet). A bit of the filling is spooned on top of the croissant so that it bakes up to form a bonus golden crust, and best of all, the bottom is deeply caramelized so you get that laminated brûléed sugar crunch reminiscent of a kouign amann.
This is the best almond croissant I’ve ever had, and I do not say that lightly. For real, this is the kind of pastry that will haunt your dreams. And it looks like Bon Appetit agrees with me because they just named Arsicault “Bakery of the Year.”

I first learned of this hidden gem from a French friend who raved about their pastries. Always trust a French lady when it comes to pastries. I was pregnant at the time and we were talking about cravings and sweets, and Camille told me that she had discovered this humble little neighborhood bakery in the Inner Richmond when she was pregnant and also craving French pastries! She said they were the best croissants she’s had since leaving France. Sold. Merci beaucoup, Camille! I owe you so much joy.
I love everything about Arsicault. It is tiny and totally unassuming. Racks of croissants, kouign amanns, morning buns, and other goodies come out hot from the oven and get immediately snatched up by the patisserie cognoscenti. The owner, Armando Lacayo, a fourth generation baker is usually there. He’s a big bear of a man with a kind smile and flour dusted on the front of his apron.
So, now that the cat’s out of the bag on this place, I suggest you head there now before it completely blows up!
Arsicault Bakery
397 Arguello Blvd
(between Euclid Ave & Cornwall St)
San Francisco, CA 94118
415-750-9460